The Tasmanian devil, a carnivorous marsupial found only on the island of Tasmania, is recognized by its stocky build, black fur, and powerful bite. This unique animal plays a role in its ecosystem as a scavenger and predator. The species faces a significant threat to its existence and is currently classified as endangered.
Current Conservation Status
The Tasmanian devil is listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This classification signifies that the species faces a very high risk of extinction in the wild. The primary driver of this status is a severe population decline observed over the past few decades. Since the mid-1990s, the wild population has experienced an estimated decline of over 80%. For example, research in 2021 indicated only about 17,000 devils remained in the wild, a significant drop from an estimated peak of 53,000 in 1996.
Primary Threats to Survival
The most significant threat to the Tasmanian devil’s survival is Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), an aggressive contagious cancer. This disease manifests as visible tumors around the mouth and face, which can spread to other parts of the body. DFTD is almost universally fatal, with infected devils typically dying within 6 to 12 months due to starvation or organ failure.
DFTD is unique because it is a transmissible cancer, meaning the cancer cells themselves are transferred between animals. Transmission primarily occurs through biting, a common behavior during social interactions like mating and feeding. There are two known strains, DFT1 and DFT2. DFT1 is the older and more widespread strain, while DFT2 was identified more recently and is currently limited to a specific region in southern Tasmania. The disease has spread across approximately 90% of the Tasmanian devil’s geographic range.
Beyond DFTD, other factors contribute to population declines. Habitat loss and fragmentation, often due to human development, reduce the available living space for devils. Road fatalities also represent a significant and ongoing threat, as devils are often struck by vehicles when scavenging on roadsides.
Conservation Initiatives
Extensive efforts are underway to protect the Tasmanian devil from extinction, largely coordinated by the Save the Tasmanian Devil Program (STDP), an initiative of the Australian and Tasmanian governments. A key strategy involves establishing “insurance populations” of healthy, disease-free devils. These populations are maintained in zoos and wildlife parks across Australia and on disease-free islands like Maria Island, serving as a genetic safeguard against the loss of wild populations. As of 2022, research indicates that these insurance populations maintain genetic diversity comparable to wild devils.
Research into DFTD is ongoing, focusing on understanding the disease and developing interventions. Scientists are investigating genetic resistance in wild devils, as some individuals show signs of adapting to the disease. Efforts also include research into developing a vaccine or immunotherapy to protect devils from DFTD, with promising advancements in inducing an immune response in immunized devils. Habitat protection efforts and programs to mitigate roadkill are also implemented to address other threats to the species.
Supporting Their Future
The future of the Tasmanian devil depends on continued conservation efforts and public support. Individuals can contribute by supporting reputable conservation organizations involved in devil protection programs. Many organizations offer opportunities for donations, which directly fund research, captive breeding, and habitat management.
Responsible tourism in Tasmania can also play a role, as ecotourism often supports local conservation initiatives and raises awareness. Education and awareness campaigns are also important, helping to inform the public about the threats faced by Tasmanian devils and their importance. Continued vigilance and support from both the scientific community and the general public will be necessary to ensure the long-term presence of this distinctive marsupial in the wild.